Mechanical Engineering
Develop your creative, practical and transferable skills through a broad mechanical engineering curriculum.
Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad
Develop your creative, practical and transferable skills through a broad mechanical engineering curriculum with the opportunity to study abroad.
Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry
Develop your creative, practical and transferable skills through a broad mechanical engineering curriculum with the opportunity to apply your skills to real-life problems through an industrial placement.
Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry and a Year Abroad
Develop your creative, practical and transferable skills through a broad mechanical engineering curriculum with the opportunity to apply your skills to real-life problems through an industrial placement and study abroad.
Gain a thorough understanding of a wide range of engineering disciplines
Use industry equipment in laboratory sessions and build the practical experience needed for a range of engineering careers
Gain design and prototype skills through practical projects and learn from experts in their fields
Course key facts
-
Qualification
-
MEng
-
-
Duration
4 years
-
Start date
October 2025
-
UCAS course code
H301
-
Study mode
Full-time
-
Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
-
Delivered by
-
Location
-
South Kensington
-
-
Applications: places
10 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
-
A*A*A or A*AAA (A-level)
-
40 points (International Baccalaureate)
-
Qualification
-
MEng
-
-
Duration
4 years
-
Start date
October 2025
-
UCAS course code
Apply to H301
-
Study mode
Full-time
-
Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
-
Delivered by
-
Location
-
South Kensington
-
-
Applications: places
10 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
-
A*A*A or A*AAA (A-level)
-
40 points (International Baccalaureate)
-
Qualification
-
MEng
-
-
Duration
5 years
-
Start date
October 2025
-
UCAS course code
Apply to H301
-
Study mode
Full-time
-
Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
-
Delivered by
-
Location
-
South Kensington
-
-
Applications: places
10 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
-
A*A*A or A*AAA (A-level)
-
40 points (International Baccalaureate)
-
Qualification
-
MEng
-
-
Duration
5 years
-
Start date
October 2025
-
UCAS course code
Apply to H301
-
Study mode
Full-time
-
Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
-
Delivered by
-
Location
-
South Kensington
-
-
Applications: places
10 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
-
A*A*A or A*AAA (A-level)
-
40 points (International Baccalaureate)
Course overview
Mechanical engineers play a key role in solving key global challenges, from developing sustainable energy sources to improving the lifespan of battery technology.
This course will suit you if you want to develop your mathematical, physics and computational skills to tackle tomorrow's engineering issues.
Through lectures, labs and tutorials, you'll build a solid understanding of the principles of solid mechanics, thermofluids and mechatronics. You'll also learn how to use technical drawings and specialist software to produce your own blueprints.
Hands-on workshop sessions will develop your manufacturing skills, while you'll also hone your design expertise on a group project.
You can broaden your learning further by taking modules from other engineering disciplines and applying mechanical engineering principles to their key challenges.
At the end of the course, you'll complete a research project in an area of your interest.
Throughout your studies, you'll develop the skills needed to undertake more advanced research, or pursue career opportunities in industries including the automotive and commercial sectors.
Mechanical engineers play a key role in solving key global challenges, from developing sustainable energy sources to improving the lifespan of battery technology.
This course will suit you if you want to develop your mathematical, physics and computational skills to tackle tomorrow's engineering issues.
Through lectures, labs and tutorials, you'll build a solid understanding of the principles of solid mechanics, thermofluids and mechatronics. You'll also learn how to use technical drawings and specialist software to produce your own blueprints.
Hands-on workshop sessions will develop your manufacturing skills, while you'll also hone your design expertise on a group project.
In your final year, you'll enrich your learning experience further by studying at one of our partner universities abroad – conditional on academic criteria.
Throughout your studies, you'll develop the skills needed to undertake more advanced research, or pursue career opportunities in industries including the automotive and commercial sectors.
Mechanical engineers play a key role in solving key global challenges, from developing sustainable energy sources to improving the lifespan of battery technology.
This course will suit you if you want to develop your mathematical, physics and computational skills to tackle tomorrow's engineering issues.
Through lectures, labs and tutorials, you'll build a solid understanding of the principles of solid mechanics, thermofluids and mechatronics. You'll also learn how to use technical drawings and specialist software to produce your own blueprints.
Hands-on workshop sessions will develop your manufacturing skills, while you'll also hone your design expertise on a group project.
You can broaden your learning further by taking modules from other engineering disciplines and applying mechanical engineering principles to their key challenges.
In your third year, you'll apply the knowledge and skills from your course to industry by undertaking a paid placement, gaining valuable employment skills.
Towards the end of the course, you'll consolidate your knowledge and skills by completing a research project in an area of your interest.
Throughout your studies, you'll develop the skills needed to undertake more advanced research, or pursue career opportunities in industries including the automotive and commercial sectors.
Mechanical engineers play a key role in solving key global challenges, from developing sustainable energy sources to improving the lifespan of battery technology.
This course will suit you if you want to develop your mathematical, physics and computational skills to tackle tomorrow's engineering issues.
Through lectures, labs and tutorials, you'll build a solid understanding of the principles of solid mechanics, thermofluids and mechatronics. You'll also learn how to use technical drawings and specialist software to produce your own blueprints.
Hands-on workshop sessions will develop your manufacturing skills, while you'll also hone your design expertise on a group project.
You can broaden your learning further by taking modules from other engineering disciplines and applying mechanical engineering principles to their key challenges.
You'll strengthen your practical skills and enrich your learning experience by undertaking a paid placement in industry, and by studying at one of our partner universities abroad – conditional on academic criteria.
Throughout your studies, you'll develop the skills needed to undertake more advanced research, or pursue career opportunities in industries including the automotive and commercial sectors.
Structure
This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.
Find out more about potential course changes.
Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Develop fundamental mathematical and computational skills to use throughout the course.
Acquire a range of skills necessary for the role of the professional engineer.
Derive from first principles the mathematical descriptions of stress analysis, and understand the physical significance of stress and strain.
Learn to derive mathematical descriptions of mechanics applications using first principles.
Discover the important mechanical properties and learn about the concept and practice of materials selection.
Explore a range of fluid dynamics mechanisms and forces to gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals.
Study the inter-conversion of heat, work, and other forms of energy and distinguish between reversible and irreversible processes.
Understand mechatronics as a concept for modelling and designing machine systems.
Learn about the design process from brief to manufacture, including how to produce a product design specification.
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Continue your development of key mathematical and computational skills, including partial differential equations and interpolation.
Demonstrate skills in data collection and recording and in writing a technical report.
Build on your existing knowledge to appreciate how stresses at a point vary and combine in different directions.
Master essential basic topics in vibrations and dynamics and understand the dynamical behaviour of various systems.
Acquire the tools needed to predict component failures and identify failure mechanisms in practice.
Further your knowledge of key aspects of engineering fluid mechanics, including dimensional analysis.
Explore a variety of industrially-significant processes concerned with energy conversion and use.
Develop an understanding of the physics of heat transfer and solve simple problems involving heat conduction, convection and radiation.
Demystify electronics and control through hands-on experience of building electronic systems and by using instrumentation to analyse their behaviour.
Carry out two major engineering projects and develop your knowledge of engineering design.
You’ll study all core modules.
You'll also take both modules from either Group A, B or C.
You'll then pick a further three optional modules from Groups A-D.
Please note, module availability may vary.
Core modules
Better understand professional engineering roles, responsibilities and ethics.
Work in a realistic engineering project environment and develop your transferable skills.
Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department.
You will be taught alongside students from other courses with options including business, management and many more.
Optional modules – Group A
Reinforce your knowledge of stress analysis and solve a wide range of axi-symmetric elastic problems.
Understand the foundations, principles, application and limitations of linear elastic fracture mechanics.
Optional modules – Group B
Study advanced concepts in thermodynamics including non-ideal behaviour, phase change and electro-chemistry.
Advance your appreciation of subsonic, transonic and supersonic flows.
Optional modules – Group C
Gain the expertise required to design and realise a full mechatronic system.
Evaluate the dynamic response requirements of a proposed machine design and produce workable proposals for its safe and effective operation.
Optional modules – Group D
Learn the principal components of, and terminology used in, embedded computer hardware and software.
Formulate an appropriate brief and process for a design project and turn a design opportunity into a concept.
Appreciate the concept of mathematical optimisation as applied to system design.
Analyse the mechanical properties, processing characteristics and failure modes of the principal classes of polymer.
Explore the fundamentals of continuum mechanics that underpin the theoretical understanding of many engineering disciplines.
Use finite element programs in a practical way to solve problems in linear elastic stress analysis.
Advance your knowledge and understanding of product machining and examine the evolution of modern product manufacturing industry since 1900.
Explore technical, social, economic and environmental issues related to nuclear energy.
Understand the main concepts and principles of tribology, with particular emphasis on lubricated systems.
Discover how mathematics can be used to characterise and model the qualitative behaviour of non-linear systems.
Build your confidence with statistical methods and procedures and perform predictive modelling tasks using regression and time series analysis.
Tackle real-life automotive design problems using the knowledge and skills gained during the course.
You’ll carry out an individual research project and choose one optional module from Group A.
You’ll also choose another five optional modules in total from Groups B and C.
Only two can be Inter Departmental Exchange modules (Group C).
If you have taken a level six version of a module (variant A) you cannot take the level 7 version (variant B) for credit.
Please note, module availability may vary.
Core modules
Apply fundamental engineering principles to complex engineering problems on a supervised individual project.
Projects can be experimental, computer-based or analytical (or a combination), with your research spread over the final year.
Optional modules – Group A
Design a jet engine for a civil airliner in a small group and improve your understanding of aerodynamic design choices.
Examine the metal forming technologies used for the manufacture of a range of metal components such as automotive and aircraft body panels.
Learn how to construct physical and computational models of processes occurring in IC engines, hybrid-electric powertrains and energy storage systems.
Explore the design and technology of mechanical transmission systems and design and analyse geared drive systems.
Optional modules – Group B
Build your working knowledge of modelling, analysis and design methods in relation to continuous and discrete control systems.
Investigate fundamental elasticity and plasticity theory, problems and solutions.
Use the theoretical principles of vibration and vibration analysis techniques to solve vibration problems.
Analyse the scientific foundations of combustion and assess trends relating to the global utilisation of fuels for energy consumption.
Engage with the mathematical formulation used for a range of heat and fluid flow problems.
Explore data processing methods used for industrial processes and understand their purpose.
Broaden your understanding of the reactor physics of nuclear reactors, including neutron conservation and neutron diffusion.
Analyse turbulent flow and heat transfer in both single-phase and two-phase systems within nuclear reactors.
Learn how to brainstorm effectively and keep an open mind in relation to the design process.
Further develop your understanding of stress analysis theories and techniques.
Build on your existing knowledge of fracture mechanics and learn how to predict the residual strength of a flawed structure.
Deepen your appreciation of fluid mechanics and use numerical solutions to describe the fundamental features of fluid flow.
Develop your familiarity with the C programming language and write simple programs to manipulate data.
Increase your awareness of system design and optimisation and better understand modern optimisation theory and practice.
Consolidate your existing knowledge of continuum mechanics and build your appreciation of the finite element method.
Gain practical experience in analysis using an industry-standard, interactive, finite element program.
Build your knowledge of the basic theory of machine learning (ML) and explore the workings of neural networks (NN).
Learn how to define an energy system and identify its major components.
Apply the principles of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics to a range of engineering and environmental problems.
Optional modules – Group C
There are multiple modules available through Inter Departmental Exchange (IDX).
These modules allow you to take a module from another discipline, preparing you for interdisciplinary work.
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Develop fundamental mathematical and computational skills to use throughout the course.
Acquire a range of skills necessary for the role of the professional engineer.
Derive from first principles the mathematical descriptions of stress analysis, and understand the physical significance of stress and strain.
Learn to derive mathematical descriptions of mechanics applications using first principles.
Discover the important mechanical properties and learn about the concept and practice of materials selection.
Explore a range of fluid dynamics mechanisms and forces to gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals.
Study the inter-conversion of heat, work, and other forms of energy and distinguish between reversible and irreversible processes.
Understand mechatronics as a concept for modelling and designing machine systems.
Learn about the design process from brief to manufacture, including how to produce a product design specification.
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Continue your development of key mathematical and computational skills, including partial differential equations and interpolation.
Demonstrate skills in data collection and recording and in writing a technical report.
Build on your existing knowledge to appreciate how stresses at a point vary and combine in different directions.
Master essential basic topics in vibrations and dynamics and understand the dynamical behaviour of various systems.
Acquire the tools needed to predict component failures and identify failure mechanisms in practice.
Further your knowledge of key aspects of engineering fluid mechanics, including dimensional analysis.
Explore a variety of industrially-significant processes concerned with energy conversion and use.
Develop an understanding of the physics of heat transfer and solve simple problems involving heat conduction, convection and radiation.
Demystify electronics and control through hands-on experience of building electronic systems and by using instrumentation to analyse their behaviour.
Carry out two major engineering projects and develop your knowledge of engineering design.
You’ll study all core modules.
You'll also take both modules from either Group A, B or C.
You'll then pick a further three optional modules from Groups A-D.
Please note, module availability may vary.
Core modules
Better understand professional engineering roles, responsibilities and ethics.
Work in a realistic engineering project environment and develop your transferable skills.
Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department.
You will be taught alongside students from other courses with options including business, management and many more.
Optional modules – Group A
Reinforce your knowledge of stress analysis and solve a wide range of axi-symmetric elastic problems.
Understand the foundations, principles, application and limitations of linear elastic fracture mechanics.
Optional modules – Group B
Study advanced concepts in thermodynamics including non-ideal behaviour, phase change and electro-chemistry.
Advance your appreciation of subsonic, transonic and supersonic flows.
Optional modules – Group C
Gain the expertise required to design and realise a full mechatronic system.
Evaluate the dynamic response requirements of a proposed machine design and produce workable proposals for its safe and effective operation.
Optional modules – Group D
Learn the principal components of, and terminology used in, embedded computer hardware and software.
Formulate an appropriate brief and process for a design project and turn a design opportunity into a concept.
Appreciate the concept of mathematical optimisation as applied to system design.
Analyse the mechanical properties, processing characteristics and failure modes of the principal classes of polymer.
Explore the fundamentals of continuum mechanics that underpin the theoretical understanding of many engineering disciplines.
Use finite element programs in a practical way to solve problems in linear elastic stress analysis.
Advance your knowledge and understanding of product machining and examine the evolution of modern product manufacturing industry since 1900.
Explore technical, social, economic and environmental issues related to nuclear energy.
Understand the main concepts and principles of tribology, with particular emphasis on lubricated systems.
Discover how mathematics can be used to characterise and model the qualitative behaviour of non-linear systems.
Build your confidence with statistical methods and procedures and perform predictive modelling tasks using regression and time series analysis.
Tackle real-life automotive design problems using the knowledge and skills gained during the course.
You’ll study at one of our partner universities abroad.
We currently have exchange agreements with universities in Australia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland and the USA, however these are subject to change.
This is an integrated year abroad, so the grades you achieve will count directly towards your Imperial degree.
We currently have exchange agreements with:
- University of Melbourne, Australia
- University of Sydney, Australia
- Ecole Centrale de Lyon, France
- Centrale Supelec, France
- RWTH Aachen, Germany
- Technical University of Delft, Netherlands
- National University of Singapore, Singapore
- ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- University of California, USA
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Develop fundamental mathematical and computational skills to use throughout the course.
Acquire a range of skills necessary for the role of the professional engineer.
Derive from first principles the mathematical descriptions of stress analysis, and understand the physical significance of stress and strain.
Learn to derive mathematical descriptions of mechanics applications using first principles.
Discover the important mechanical properties and learn about the concept and practice of materials selection.
Explore a range of fluid dynamics mechanisms and forces to gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals.
Study the inter-conversion of heat, work, and other forms of energy and distinguish between reversible and irreversible processes.
Understand mechatronics as a concept for modelling and designing machine systems.
Learn about the design process from brief to manufacture, including how to produce a product design specification.
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Continue your development of key mathematical and computational skills, including partial differential equations and interpolation.
Demonstrate skills in data collection and recording and in writing a technical report.
Build on your existing knowledge to appreciate how stresses at a point vary and combine in different directions.
Master essential basic topics in vibrations and dynamics and understand the dynamical behaviour of various systems.
Acquire the tools needed to predict component failures and identify failure mechanisms in practice.
Further your knowledge of key aspects of engineering fluid mechanics, including dimensional analysis.
Explore a variety of industrially-significant processes concerned with energy conversion and use.
Develop an understanding of the physics of heat transfer and solve simple problems involving heat conduction, convection and radiation.
Demystify electronics and control through hands-on experience of building electronic systems and by using instrumentation to analyse their behaviour.
Carry out two major engineering projects and develop your knowledge of engineering design.
You’ll spend this year on a paid industrial placement.
This year will enable you to put the skills you have learned into practice, and may contribute to the professional development requirement of gaining Chartered Engineer status.
You will be expected to help the Department organise your placement, however, you will have the support of the Year in Industry Coordinator.
Securing a placement is competitive, so you may need to apply to multiple employers and take part in recruitment activities such as interviews.
Students have previously completed placements with:
Red Bull Technology Limited
- Red Bull Technology Limited
- McLaren
- Mercedes
The employer can often be in a location of your choice – including outside the UK – as long as you are successful in obtaining a position there and the placement is approved by the Department.
You’ll study all core modules.
You'll also take both modules from either Group A, B or C.
You'll then pick a further three optional modules from Groups A-D.
Please note, module availability may vary.
Core modules
Better understand professional engineering roles, responsibilities and ethics.
Work in a realistic engineering project environment and develop your transferable skills.
Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department.
You will be taught alongside students from other courses with options including business, management and many more.
Optional modules – Group A
Reinforce your knowledge of stress analysis and solve a wide range of axi-symmetric elastic problems.
Understand the foundations, principles, application and limitations of linear elastic fracture mechanics.
Optional modules – Group B
Study advanced concepts in thermodynamics including non-ideal behaviour, phase change and electro-chemistry.
Advance your appreciation of subsonic, transonic and supersonic flows.
Optional modules – Group C
Gain the expertise required to design and realise a full mechatronic system.
Evaluate the dynamic response requirements of a proposed machine design and produce workable proposals for its safe and effective operation.
Optional modules – Group D
Learn the principal components of, and terminology used in, embedded computer hardware and software.
Formulate an appropriate brief and process for a design project and turn a design opportunity into a concept.
Appreciate the concept of mathematical optimisation as applied to system design.
Analyse the mechanical properties, processing characteristics and failure modes of the principal classes of polymer.
Explore the fundamentals of continuum mechanics that underpin the theoretical understanding of many engineering disciplines.
Use finite element programs in a practical way to solve problems in linear elastic stress analysis.
Advance your knowledge and understanding of product machining and examine the evolution of modern product manufacturing industry since 1900.
Explore technical, social, economic and environmental issues related to nuclear energy.
Understand the main concepts and principles of tribology, with particular emphasis on lubricated systems.
Discover how mathematics can be used to characterise and model the qualitative behaviour of non-linear systems.
Build your confidence with statistical methods and procedures and perform predictive modelling tasks using regression and time series analysis.
Tackle real-life automotive design problems using the knowledge and skills gained during the course.
You’ll carry out an individual research project and choose one optional module from Group A.
You’ll also choose another five optional modules in total from Groups B and C.
Only two can be Inter Departmental Exchange modules (Group C).
If you have taken a level six version of a module (variant A) you cannot take the level 7 version (variant B) for credit.
Please note, module availability may vary.
Core modules
Apply fundamental engineering principles to complex engineering problems on a supervised individual project.
Projects can be experimental, computer-based or analytical (or a combination), with your research spread over the final year.
Optional modules – Group A
Design a jet engine for a civil airliner in a small group and improve your understanding of aerodynamic design choices.
Examine the metal forming technologies used for the manufacture of a range of metal components such as automotive and aircraft body panels.
Learn how to construct physical and computational models of processes occurring in IC engines, hybrid-electric powertrains and energy storage systems.
Explore the design and technology of mechanical transmission systems and design and analyse geared drive systems.
Optional modules – Group B
Build your working knowledge of modelling, analysis and design methods in relation to continuous and discrete control systems.
Investigate fundamental elasticity and plasticity theory, problems and solutions.
Use the theoretical principles of vibration and vibration analysis techniques to solve vibration problems.
Analyse the scientific foundations of combustion and assess trends relating to the global utilisation of fuels for energy consumption.
Engage with the mathematical formulation used for a range of heat and fluid flow problems.
Deepen your knowledge of composite materials, including the mechanics of fibre and particle reinforced composites and their methods of manufacture.
Explore data processing methods used for industrial processes and understand their purpose.
Broaden your understanding of the reactor physics of nuclear reactors, including neutron conservation and neutron diffusion.
Analyse turbulent flow and heat transfer in both single-phase and two-phase systems within nuclear reactors.
Learn how to brainstorm effectively and keep an open mind in relation to the design process.
Further develop your understanding of stress analysis theories and techniques.
Build on your existing knowledge of fracture mechanics and learn how to predict the residual strength of a flawed structure.
Deepen your appreciation of fluid mechanics and use numerical solutions to describe the fundamental features of fluid flow.
Develop your familiarity with the C programming language and write simple programs to manipulate data.
Increase your awareness of system design and optimisation and better understand modern optimisation theory and practice.
Consolidate your existing knowledge of continuum mechanics and build your appreciation of the finite element method.
Gain practical experience in analysis using an industry-standard, interactive, finite element program.
Build your knowledge of the basic theory of machine learning (ML) and explore the workings of neural networks (NN).
Learn how to define an energy system and identify its major components.
Apply the principles of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics to a range of engineering and environmental problems.
Optional modules – Group C
There are multiple modules available through Inter Departmental Exchange (IDX).
These modules allow you to take a module from another discipline, preparing you for interdisciplinary work.
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Develop fundamental mathematical and computational skills to use throughout the course.
Acquire a range of skills necessary for the role of the professional engineer.
Derive from first principles the mathematical descriptions of stress analysis, and understand the physical significance of stress and strain.
Learn to derive mathematical descriptions of mechanics applications using first principles.
Discover the important mechanical properties and learn about the concept and practice of materials selection.
Explore a range of fluid dynamics mechanisms and forces to gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals.
Study the inter-conversion of heat, work, and other forms of energy and distinguish between reversible and irreversible processes.
Understand mechatronics as a concept for modelling and designing machine systems.
Learn about the design process from brief to manufacture, including how to produce a product design specification.
You’ll study the following core modules.
Core modules
Continue your development of key mathematical and computational skills, including partial differential equations and interpolation.
Demonstrate skills in data collection and recording and in writing a technical report.
Build on your existing knowledge to appreciate how stresses at a point vary and combine in different directions.
Master essential basic topics in vibrations and dynamics and understand the dynamical behaviour of various systems.
Acquire the tools needed to predict component failures and identify failure mechanisms in practice.
Further your knowledge of key aspects of engineering fluid mechanics, including dimensional analysis.
Explore a variety of industrially-significant processes concerned with energy conversion and use.
Develop an understanding of the physics of heat transfer and solve simple problems involving heat conduction, convection and radiation.
Demystify electronics and control through hands-on experience of building electronic systems and by using instrumentation to analyse their behaviour.
Carry out two major engineering projects and develop your knowledge of engineering design.
You’ll spend this year on a paid industrial placement.
This year will enable you to put the skills you have learned into practice, and may contribute to the professional development requirement of gaining Chartered Engineer status.
You will be expected to help the Department organise your placement, however, you will have the support of the Year in Industry Coordinator.
Securing a placement is competitive, so you may need to apply to multiple employers and take part in recruitment activities such as interviews.
Students have previously completed placements with:
Red Bull Technology Limited
- Red Bull Technology Limited
- McLaren
- Mercedes
The employer can often be in a location of your choice – including outside the UK – as long as you are successful in obtaining a position there and the placement is approved by the Department.
You’ll study all core modules.
You'll also take both modules from either Group A, B or C.
You'll then pick a further three optional modules from Groups A-D.
Please note, module availability may vary.
Core modules
Better understand professional engineering roles, responsibilities and ethics.
Work in a realistic engineering project environment and develop your transferable skills.
Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department.
You will be taught alongside students from other courses with options including business, management and many more.
Optional modules – Group A
Reinforce your knowledge of stress analysis and solve a wide range of axi-symmetric elastic problems.
Understand the foundations, principles, application and limitations of linear elastic fracture mechanics.
Optional modules – Group B
Study advanced concepts in thermodynamics including non-ideal behaviour, phase change and electro-chemistry.
Advance your appreciation of subsonic, transonic and supersonic flows.
Optional modules – Group C
Gain the expertise required to design and realise a full mechatronic system.
Evaluate the dynamic response requirements of a proposed machine design and produce workable proposals for its safe and effective operation.
Optional modules – Group D
Learn the principal components of, and terminology used in, embedded computer hardware and software.
Formulate an appropriate brief and process for a design project and turn a design opportunity into a concept.
Appreciate the concept of mathematical optimisation as applied to system design.
Analyse the mechanical properties, processing characteristics and failure modes of the principal classes of polymer.
Explore the fundamentals of continuum mechanics that underpin the theoretical understanding of many engineering disciplines.
Use finite element programs in a practical way to solve problems in linear elastic stress analysis.
Advance your knowledge and understanding of product machining and examine the evolution of modern product manufacturing industry since 1900.
Explore technical, social, economic and environmental issues related to nuclear energy.
Understand the main concepts and principles of tribology, with particular emphasis on lubricated systems.
Discover how mathematics can be used to characterise and model the qualitative behaviour of non-linear systems.
Build your confidence with statistical methods and procedures and perform predictive modelling tasks using regression and time series analysis.
Tackle real-life automotive design problems using the knowledge and skills gained during the course.
You’ll study at one of our partner universities abroad.
We currently have exchange agreements with universities in Australia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland and the USA, however these are subject to change.
This is an integrated year abroad, so the grades you achieve will count directly towards your Imperial degree.
We currently have exchange agreements with:
- University of Sydney, Australia
- Ecole Centrale de Lyon, France
- Centrale Supelec, France
- RWTH Aachen, Germany
- Technical University of Delft, Netherlands
- National University of Singapore, Singapore
- ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- University of California, USA
Professional accreditation
The following MEng degrees are accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry
- Mechanical Engineering with Nuclear Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering with Nuclear Engineering and a Year in Industry
Please note that the following year-abroad degrees are not accredited:
- Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad
- Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry and Abroad
With a professionally accredited degree, you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers that you have achieved an industry-recognised standard of competency. Professional accreditation also provides international recognition of your qualifications, which you can use to launch a career abroad.
With an accredited and integrated Master’s degree, you’ll fully meet the educational requirements for professional registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Becoming a Chartered Engineer can further enhance your career prospects and earning potential. It demonstrates your competencies and commitment to lifelong learning – providing you with recognition in your field and greater influence and opportunities.
Our accreditation agreement with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers was renewed in 2023-24.
Associateship
In addition to your degree, you’ll receive the Associateship of the City and Guilds of London Institute (ACGI) upon completion of this course. This associateship is awarded by one of our historic constituent Colleges.
Teaching and assessment
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, seminars and similar
- Independent study
- Project work
Year 1
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 2
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 3
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Year 4
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Teaching and learning methods
-
Lectures
-
Problem sheets
-
Tutorials
-
Workshops
-
Laboratory work
-
Group practical exercises
-
Research projects
-
Group design project
-
Virtual learning environment
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Practical
- Exam
Year 1
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 2
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 3
- 40% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 55% Exam
Year 4
- 45% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 50% Exam
Assessment methods
-
Examinations
-
Progress tests
-
Report writing
-
Online assignments, quizzes and tests
-
Peer assessment
-
Laboratory/workshop practicals
-
Programming tests
-
CAD & simulation tool tests
-
Oral presentations
-
Poster presentations
-
Group presentations
-
Design exhibitions
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, seminars and similar
- Independent study
- Project work
Year 1
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 2
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 3
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Year 4
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Teaching and learning methods
-
Lectures
-
Problem sheets
-
Tutorials
-
Workshops
-
Laboratory work
-
Group practical exercises
-
Research projects
-
Group design project
-
Virtual learning environment
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Practical
- Exam
Year 1
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 2
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 3
- 40% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 55% Exam
Year 4
- 45% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 50% Exam
Assessment methods
-
Examinations
-
Progress tests
-
Report writing
-
Online assignments, quizzes and tests
-
Peer assessment
-
Laboratory/workshop practicals
-
Programming tests
-
CAD & simulation tool tests
-
Oral presentations
-
Poster presentations
-
Group presentations
-
Design exhibitions
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, seminars and similar
- Independent study
- Project work
Year 1
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 2
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 4
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Year 5
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Teaching and learning methods
-
Lectures
-
Problem sheets
-
Tutorials
-
Workshops
-
Laboratory work
-
Group practical exercises
-
Research projects
-
Group design project
-
Virtual learning environment
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Practical
- Exam
Year 1
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 2
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 3
- 100% Coursework
- 0% Practical
- 0% Exam
Year 4
- 40% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 55% Exam
Year 5
- 45% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 50% Exam
Assessment methods
-
Examinations
-
Progress tests
-
Report writing
-
Online assignments, quizzes and tests
-
Peer assessment
-
Laboratory/workshop practicals
-
Programming tests
-
CAD & simulation tool tests
-
Oral presentations
-
Poster presentations
-
Group presentations
-
Design exhibitions
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, seminars and similar
- Independent study
- Project work
Year 1
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 2
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 80% Independent study
- 0% Project work
Year 4
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Year 5
- 20% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 40% Independent study
- 40% Project work
Teaching and learning methods
-
Lectures
-
Problem sheets
-
Tutorials
-
Workshops
-
Laboratory work
-
Group practical exercises
-
Research projects
-
Group design project
-
Virtual learning environment
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Practical
- Exam
Year 1
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 2
- 20% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 75% Exam
Year 3
- 100% Coursework
- 0% Practical
- 0% Exam
Year 4
- 40% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 55% Exam
Year 5
- 45% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 50% Exam
Assessment methods
-
Examinations
-
Progress tests
-
Report writing
-
Online assignments, quizzes and tests
-
Peer assessment
-
Laboratory/workshop practicals
-
Programming tests
-
CAD & simulation tool tests
-
Oral presentations
-
Poster presentations
-
Group presentations
-
Design exhibitions
Entry requirements
We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.
How to apply
Apply via UCAS
You can now submit your application via UCAS Hub. There you can add this course as one of your choices and track your application.
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
Admissions test (ESAT)
To be eligible for selection for this course for 2025 entry, you must sit the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) as part of the application process.
Registration is now open for the January ESAT test sitting.
This is your last opportunity to sit the test for 2025 entry. Registration closes online on 23 December 2024 (21 November 2024 for candidates requiring access arrangements).
About ESAT
- Computer-based, multiple-choice test which you must sit in a Pearson VUE test centre.
- Create a UAT-UK account with Pearson VUE to book a test.
For this course, you need to book and sit the following three ESAT modules:
- Module 1 – Mathematics 1
- Module 2 – Mathematics 2
- Module 3 – Physics
Key test deadlines
October sitting (15 and 16 October 2024): Registration is now closed
January sitting (7 and 8 January 2025): Register online from 24 October to 23 December 2024 (candidates requiring access arrangements must register by 21 November 2024)
Take the test just once as only your first score will count.
Test fee bursary
Applications are open for the UAT-UK bursary, which covers the full-test fee for candidates in financial need who are permanently living in the UK and planning to take the test at a UK test centre.
Full details of eligibility criteria and how to apply are available on the UAT-UK website.
Access arrangements
Access arrangements, for example, extra time or rest breaks, are available for students with learning difficulties, disabilities, and other medical conditions.
If this applies to you, you need to notify UAT-UK of your requirements before booking your test in one of Pearson VUE’s global network of test centres.
Once your access arrangements have been confirmed, you will be able to book your test online.
Assessing your application
Admissions Tutors consider all the evidence available during our rigorous selection process and the College flags key information providing assessors with a more complete picture of the educational and social circumstances relevant to the applicant. Some applicants may be set lower offers and some more challenging ones.
Completing your UCAS application
Please tell us in your personal statement about the things you have done to find out about mechanical engineering.
In particular, describe any work placements, industrial visits, or relevant projects or hobbies.
We are also interested in your general motivation as evidenced by extracurricular activities and part-time work, as well as your wider contribution to your school or community life.
The interview will be 25- 30 minutes with a member of academic staff. During the interview we will try to assess your potential. We might ask you about things you have mentioned in your personal statement, some maths and physics, and explore your ability to think like an engineer. We will want to know about your interest in engineering.
Interviews will be held online on Wednesday afternoons between November and March. We aim to give you at least two weeks notice if we select you for interview.
It may take a very long time for you to hear anything from us. This is because we accept applications right until the end of Jan, we read and assess applications very carefully, and we continue making decisions right up to the end of March. Even if you have applied in October, you may not hear anything until March. Please bear with us.
Unless you are from an exempt nationality, you will need an ATAS certificate to obtain your visa and study this course.
Nationals from the following countries are exempt: Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, USA and EEA members.
Use this information when applying for an ATAS certificate to study this course:
- CAH code: CAH10-01-02
- Descriptor: mechanical engineering
- Supervisor name: Professor Mike Lowe
Get guidance and support for obtaining an ATAS certificate.
All students should apply initially to MEng Mechanical Engineering.
Students interested in one of the other courses within the Department should then apply to transfer at the appropriate time during the course (selection criteria may apply).
Transfer during the second or third year
- MEng Mechanical with Nuclear Engineering
- MEng Mechanical Engineering with Nuclear Engineering and a Year in Industry
Transfer at the end of the third year
- MEng Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad
Transfer during the fourth year
- MEng Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry
- MEng Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry and a Year Abroad
If you are an international student, transferring to a different course could have an impact on your student visa.
Please visit our International Student Support webpage for further information.
Year abroad
Language requirement
Teaching is in the language of your host country in France and Germany, so you will need to reach an acceptable proficiency in the relevant language before you go. Free language classes are available at the College to help you prepare.
Availability
There are limited places available on the Year Abroad programme, which means that competition for selection is strong and a placement cannot be guaranteed.
Normally, only students with marks of 65% or above will be eligible for placements for all destinations.
Please note the list of universities located abroad that the Department currently has partnerships with is illustrative.
Partnerships with universities are subject to continuous review and individual partnerships may or may not be renewed.
Year in industry
If you choose to take the Year in Industry course, you'll complete a paid industrial placement after your second year.
You will be expected to help the Department organise your placement with the support of the Year in Industry Coordinator.
Securing a placement is competitive, so you may need to apply to multiple employers and take part in recruitment activities such as interviews.
Tuition fees
Home fee
2025 entry
£9,535 per year
Year abroad
2025 entry
£1,450 for that year
Year in industry
2025 entry
£950 for that year
Important update for 2025 entry
The UK government has announced that, starting in April 2025, maximum tuition fees for Home undergraduate students in England will increase from £9,250 per year to £9,535. Find out more.
Your fee is based on the year you enter the university, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.
Find out more about our tuition fees payment terms, including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.
Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out how we assess your fee status.
If you're a Home student, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the UK government to cover the entire cost of tuition for every year of your course.
The loan is paid directly to the university.
You will start repaying it only after you leave your course, have a job, and are earning above a certain amount.
Once the repayments start, the amount you pay each month depends on how much you earn, not on how much you owe in total.
Home students can apply for a means-tested Maintenance Loan to help with their living costs.
In November 2024, the UK government announced a 3.1% increase in English Maintenance Loans for 2025-26.
How you apply for student finance depends on whether you have studied before and where you’re from or normally live. Find out more on the UK government's website.
The Imperial Bursary is available to all Home undergraduate students with a household income below £70,000 per year.
The amount awarded is based on your household income, with up to £5,000/year available for students from the lowest income households.
It's money which you don't need to pay back, and it's paid on top of any government funding you may also receive.
It is available for each year of your course, as long as your annual household income remains below £70,000.
Overseas fee
2025 entry
£43,300 per year
Year abroad
2025 entry
100% of the fee for that year
Year in industry
2025 entry
10% of the fee for that year
Your fee is based on the year you enter the university, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.
Find out more about our tuition fees payment terms, including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.
Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out how we assess your fee status.
How will studying at Imperial help my career?
99% Of Imperial Mechanical Engineering graduates in work or further study*
- 99% Of Imperial Mechanical Engineering graduates in work or further study*
- 1%
92% Of Imperial Mechanical Engineering graduates in highly skilled work or further study*
- 92% Of Imperial Mechanical Engineering graduates in highly skilled work or further study*
- 8%
*2021-22 graduate outcomes data, published by HESA in 2024
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Gain transferable skills relevant to a career in mechanical engineering.
Develop skills that are highly valuable in finance, consulting, and project management.
With specialised knowledge, you'll be highly sought after in a range of sectors.
Many of our graduates pursue careers in Formula One and related industries.
Other career prospects include the European Space Agency, nuclear engineering, simulation engineering, wind engineering, and the medical industry.
Further links
Contact the department
- Telephone: +44 (0)20 7594 7005
- Email: me.admissions@imperial.ac.uk
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Request info
Learn more about studying at Imperial. Receive useful information about our life in our undergraduate community and download our latest Study Guide.
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Events, tasters and talks
Meet us and find out more about studying at Imperial.
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Course data
Terms and conditions
There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.
You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.
Programme specifications